In a bid to raise awareness about the increasing cases of neglect faced by individuals with stomas, Stoma World Kenya hosted a successful fundraising dinner at the Ole Sereni Hotel on Friday, June 20.
The event served not just as a dinner, but as a powerful declaration that no colon and rectal cancer survivor should walk alone, and every story deserves to be heard.
Mary Thuo, the Vice Chair of the organisation and herself an ostomate, stood as a beacon of inspiration. Having struggled for years without access to quality stoma bags, her experience, along with that of fellow ostomates, spurred the establishment of Stoma World Kenya.
Their goal is to empower Kenyans to live high-quality lives even after surviving colon and rectal cancer.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank Cape Media. They have been supporting us throughout, giving us coverage without any payment,” Mary said during an exclusive interview, expressing gratitude for their unwavering support. “We thank them so much because through their help, we are reaching so many other people who may not know that they can get help from Stoma World Kenya.”
Timothy Gitau, another ostomate, delivered a powerful live testimonial, following compelling video testimonials from other beneficiaries.He underscored a stark reality: “In Kenya, you do not know what a stoma is until you are told you are going to get one.”
His plea resonated throughout the room as he urged everyone to spread awareness and eradicate harmful myths that portray people with stomas as cursed or bewitched.
Lilian Ruguru, the programme manager, highlighted Stoma World Kenya’s comprehensive approach, which includes training nurses on proper stoma care and conducting monthly therapy sessions to combat stigma.
This holistic support system addresses both the physical and emotional needs of ostomates across Kenya.
Chairman Tarsim Singh Devgun expressed heartfelt gratitude to all the donors, acknowledging their generous contributions as a beacon of hope for ostomates.With over 600 members, Stoma World Kenya continues its mission to ensure no ostomate walks alone, but rather, moves forward, together.
